DanubeCrafts

Professional with an academic background in Economics, specialized in Management and Marketing, with experience in communication, dissemination and stakeholder engagement within European projects. Combines strategic communication expertise with a strong understanding of innovation ecosystems, technology transfer and research valorisation processes. Working within the Innovation and Technology Transfer Department of the National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest, contributes to activities supporting innovation promotion, collaboration between academia and industry, and the valorisation of research results. Has experience in European research and cooperation projects, including Horizon Europe, Interreg and other EU-funded programmes, focusing on communication, dissemination of results and stakeholder engagement. Within the DanubeCrafts project, is responsible for the development and implementation of the communication and dissemination strategy, coordinating outreach activities and ensuring the visibility of project results through events, publications, digital platforms and stakeholder networks. The role also supports knowledge exchange and cooperation between academia, SMEs, cultural actors and public institutions, contributing to the promotion and sustainable development of traditional crafts in the Danube Region.

PhD in Management, specialised in the hybrid management of research, development and innovation (RDI) projects, combining predictive and Agile methodologies in complex, multi-partner environments. Background in Chemistry, providing a solid scientific foundation for understanding and supporting research and innovation processes. Extensive experience in writing, coordinating and implementing national and international projects, including substantial expertise in Horizon Europe, Interreg and other EU-funded programmes. Experienced Project Director within Interreg and Horizon programmes, as well as in other management roles in complex international consortia involving academic institutions, public authorities and private sector partners. Strong expertise in innovation management, technology transfer and knowledge valorisation, supporting the transformation of research results into applicable solutions for industry and society. Experience in facilitating cooperation between academia, SMEs and public stakeholders, promoting the uptake of innovative technologies and fostering international collaboration. Financial Manager of the Lead Partner – Politehnica Bucharest, ensuring sound financial coordination, compliance with EU regulations and efficient management of financial reporting within EU-funded projects, including the DanubeCrafts project under the Interreg Danube Region Programme. Actively involved in the development of strategies, action plans and innovation support mechanisms, including initiatives aimed at strengthening regional innovation ecosystems, supporting SMEs, and facilitating technology transfer, knowledge exchange and the practical application of research outcomes with tangible economic and institutional impact.

Alexandru Marin is a university professor and expert in innovation and technology transfer with extensive experience in European projects and international cooperation. He graduated in Mechanical Engineering from the University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest and holds a PhD in Fluid Mechanics and Hydraulic Machines. Within the DanubeCrafts project, Alexandru Marin serves as Project Director, coordinating the implementation of project activities and the collaboration among international partners. His role focuses on supporting the development and promotion of traditional crafts and strengthening transnational cooperation across the Danube region. He has long-standing experience in supporting innovation and internationalization for SMEs, providing services such as innovation audits, intellectual property consultancy, and support for the valorization of research and development results. Throughout his career, he has contributed to strengthening links between academia, industry, and regional stakeholders. In addition to his project management and advisory roles, he is also an experienced trainer and speaker at international conferences and training events dedicated to innovation, entrepreneurship, and knowledge transfer.